- Psalm 122:1-2, NIV

I was rejoicing last Sunday after our first Drive-In Worship service. While we did not actually get to go into "the house of the Lord" to worship, we were close. Gathering in our West parking lot gave us the opportunity to be on our campus with other members of our church family. Most of us did not get a chance to "stand" -- but we could sit in our cars and worship God together. Thankfully, it was a beautiful July morning!

Heidi and Christian, our Co-directors of Music Ministries (CD ROMs), began playing and singing a few minutes before the start of the service. Their inspiring music helped us to focus as worshipers were guided to parking places by our usher team. Each person was given a worship bulletin, as well as a red, white and blue fan -- which came in handy later on. Richard had constructed our makeshift pulpit and stairs, so we could be seen by all. And while the FM broadcast of the service was available, most of those in attendance could hear the service fine from our PA speakers. I want to thank our Worship Ministry Team and everyone who volunteered to help out. It was truly a worship "team effort!"

For the first time in many months, I had the privilege of leading worship and preaching to an actual congregation -- even though it was a little difficult to see through the windshields. But by the time we were finished, I felt like we had truly worshiped God -- even in this new and unusual way. If you were unable to attend last Sunday, perhaps because of the holiday weekend and you were out of town, I hope you will plan to be there this Sunday at 9:30 a.m. The message is called "Thriving in the Storm" and is based on Paul's storm experience in Acts 27:13-26. If you cannot attend in person, there is still an online version of the service on our website.